Sir Ian McGeechan snubs Bryan Habana and Shane Williams from his top 5 wingers of all-time
Rugby NewsWednesday, 14 February 2024 at 08:46
British & Irish legend and respected rugby scribe Sir Ian McGeechan has ranked the greatest wingers to have ever graced the game.
Wales legend Shane Williams and Springbok flier Bryan habana both missed out on the top five, being placed ninth and seventh respectively in his list for The Telegraph. Check out his top five below.
5. Jason Robinson (England)
- Major teams: British and Irish Lions, England
- Test caps: 56
- Test tries: 30
England's electrifying winger, Robinson mesmerized audiences with his lightning speed and dazzling footwork.
A dual-code international, he seamlessly transitioned from rugby league to union, leaving an indelible mark in both arenas. Robinson's fearless attacking style and ability to break through defensive lines made him a fan favorite worldwide.
McGeechan said: "He made such an impact on the game when moving from rugby league. He had dazzling feet that meant he so often beat the first defender and, like most top wingers, you could play off him as well as him being such a devastating finisher."
Robinson is nicknamed '' after a character in the British comic , who is an extremely fast runner
4. Jeff Wilson (New Zealand)
- Major teams: New Zealand
- Test caps: 60
- Test tries: 44
Versatile and prolific, Wilson's talent transcended rugby codes. The New Zealand star excelled as a winger for the All Blacks, amassing 44 caps and leaving a trail of defenders in his wake.
Beyond rugby, Wilson showcased his sporting prowess in cricket, illustrating his remarkable athleticism and competitive spirit on multiple fronts.
McGeechan said: "Just a brilliant rugby player with vision and skill. I really enjoyed watching him. He played international cricket too and it backs up my belief that so many of the best players play different sports."
3. Gerald Davies (Wales)
- Major teams: British and Irish Lions, Wales
- Test caps: 51
- Test tries: 23
Revered Welsh winger known for his elusive speed and graceful sidesteps. Davies' career epitomized excellence, earning 46 caps for Wales and touring with the British and Irish Lions.
His strategic prowess and blistering pace made him a formidable force on the field, leaving defenders in his wake.
McGeechan said: "He was so skilful, and could play centre as well, and had a wonderful sidestep. You knew that if you provided him with some space he would beat not just one defender, but two or three."
2. David Campese (Australia)
- Major teams: Australia
- Test caps: 101
- Test tries: 64
Australian rugby legend celebrated for his audacious flair and creative playmaking. Campese's 101 caps for the Wallabies showcased his exceptional skill and vision.
Renowned for his unpredictability and ability to conjure try-scoring opportunities from seemingly impossible situations, he remains a revered figure in the sport.
McGeechan said: "He was another game-changer: different but clever. He won games for Australia on his own and often gave his country a confidence about their rugby that they did not always have before."
1. Jonah Lomu (New Zealand)
- Major teams: New Zealand
- Test caps: 63
- Test tries: 37
The iconic All Black whose sheer size and speed redefined the winger position. Lomu's imposing presence and raw athleticism made him a rugby phenomenon.
With 63 caps for New Zealand, his devastating runs and unmatched try-scoring ability made him a legend of the game, inspiring awe and admiration across the globe.
McGeechan said: "He simply changed the game and drew non-rugby people to watch the sport. He arrived at a time when professionalism was imminent and his impact, both on the field and off it as a rugby superstar, is still felt now."
DID YOU KNOW?! He weighed 120 kg and was 1.96 metres tall, but could run 100 metres in 10.8 seconds
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